New York City · Budget
New York City apartments under $2,000/month
Under $2,000 covers most studios and 1-beds in popular international student neighborhoods. Comfortable for a single grad student in most US markets. The neighborhoods below in New York City fit this budget.
Best neighborhoods under $2,000/month in New York City
Morningside Heights
Morningside Heights is Columbia's home neighborhood. International grad students cluster here for proximity to campus, the libraries, and the long-established Korean and Chinese communities.
$1,800 – $5,500/mo
East Village
East Village is a slightly cheaper, edgier alternative to Greenwich Village for NYU students. 10-15 minutes to campus by foot.
$1,900 – $4,800/mo
Harlem
Harlem (south of 145th) is a more affordable Columbia adjacent option. Many grad students live between 110th and 135th for the price-to-commute ratio.
$1,500 – $3,800/mo
Universities in New York City
Frequently asked questions
Can I really find apartments under $2,000/month in New York City?
Yes — 3 of our covered New York City neighborhoods have units under $2,000/month, especially Morningside Heights, East Village, Harlem.
Will I need a roommate to stay under $2,000/month in New York City?
Often yes — sharing a 2-bed is the most reliable way to stay under $2,000/month in New York City without sacrificing safety or commute.